"I hope that 'sister Madge,' as you call her, does not resent my
enjoyment of your society."
"Not in the least. I feel, however, that I have been neglecting her
shamefully, and propose to make amends."
"Indeed; has she brought you to a sense of your shortcomings? This
scarcely bears out your first remark."
"It is nothing against its truth. Miss Aldeu makes it very clear that
she is not dependent on me or any one for enjoyment; but in view of
the past I have been scarcely courteous. Therefore," he added, with
a laugh, "when Arnault monopolizes you I shall console myself with
Madge."
"And therefore I shall feel the less compunction. Thank you."
"I am glad to take the least thorn from the roses of your life," was
his smiling answer.
She veiled close scrutiny under her reply: "I fear the brilliant Miss
Alden will cause my society to appear commonplace in contrast."
"I do not see how you can fear anything of the kind," was his prompt
answer; "I trust you, and you must trust me."
"I do trust you, Mr. Muir," she said, softly.
Before he could speak again nurses and children came streaming and
screaming from the lake toward the house. "Nellie Wilder is drowned,"
was the burden of their dire message.
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